Located on the east bank of the Irtysh River, Pavlodar is one of the oldest cities in northern Kazakhstan. It was founded in 1720 as an Imperial Russian outpost to control the region’s salt lakes and became the town of Pavlodar in 1861. Pavlodar’s population flourished in the 1950s during the Soviet Virgin Lands Campaign as part of a bid to boost agricultural and industrial productivity.
Things to do in Pavlodar
One of Pavlodar’s most impressive architectural landmarks is the Mashkhur Zhusup Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan. Opening to worshippers in 2001, it’s named after a prominent Kazakh poet and historian. Admire the 63-metre-high minaret and the sky-blue dome, then marvel at the Zumrad crystal chandelier that adorns the interior.
For insight into Pavlodar’s cultural heritage, pay a visit to the Historical and Regional Studies Museum of Pavlodar Province, which occupies a magnificent yellow building in the heart of the city. In addition to traditional costumes, artwork and everyday artefacts, it features a fascinating exhibition dedicated to mammoths.
Also not to miss is the intricately decorated wooden building of the Bukar Zhyrau Museum of Literature and Art, which was built in 1897. Learn about the life and legacy of poet Bukhar Zhyrau and browse the folkloric artefacts on display, then see documents featuring ancient Turkic writing. The Hall of Art is dedicated to local composers, musicians and singers who have contributed to the development of Kazakh music.
Getting around Pavlodar
Pavlodar Airport is a 30-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Central Asia. By road, the capital of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan, is five hours away. Trains connect from destinations across Kazakhstan to the Pavlodar railway station while both buses and streetcars travel throughout the city.